The flexographic printing industry in Europe has evolved significantly, driven by advancements in technology and increasing demand for eco-friendly packaging solutions. Companies in this sector range from large manufacturers to small specialized firms, producing everything from labels and flexible packaging to corrugated cartons. This industry is witnessing a shift towards sustainability, with many firms implementing green practices and materials. Additionally, the trend toward customization is growing, making flexographic printing a popular choice for businesses looking to enhance brand visibility. As regulations tighten around packaging, innovators are expected to drive forward-thinking solutions to meet new consumer needs.


The investors profiled in this article reflect a mix of venture capital, private equity, and corporate investment. Headquartered across key locations like London, Paris, and Luxembourg, these investors range from small firms to large institutions, with funding histories dating back as early as 1854. In 2024, they collectively joined over 180 deals in the flexographic printing sector, highlighting their commitment and interest in this dynamic industry. Each investor brings unique strengths, with a particular focus on supporting growth in printing technologies and sustainable packaging solutions.


Top 17 Flexographic Printing Investors in Europe


1. Bunzl UK and Ireland

  • Website: bunzl.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1854
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 5
  • LinkedIn: bunzl

Bunzl UK and Ireland is a corporate investor based in London, England, and is part of Bunzl Public Limited Company, a distribution and outsourcing company founded in 1854. The company specializes in providing essential items necessary for businesses to operate across various industries, leveraging a global distribution network. In recent years, Bunzl has made several strategic acquisitions that highlight its focus on the packaging sector. Notably, in 2020, Bunzl acquired Abco Kovex, an Irish flexible packaging distributor, which reported €23 million in revenue, indicating a clear interest in flexible packaging solutions. Additionally, their acquisition of Holland Packaging in 2024, which focuses on customized packaging products, further emphasizes their commitment to the packaging industry. These transactions demonstrate Bunzl's active role in sectors that are closely related to flexographic printing, making them a relevant investor in this field.


2. Crédit Mutuel Equity


Crédit Mutuel Equity is a private equity investment firm based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, founded in 1988. The firm focuses on providing capital and strategic support to businesses across various sectors, integrating economic and ESG considerations into their strategies. Notably, they have been involved in several transactions relevant to the printing industry, including an investment in Prismaflex International in 1997, which specializes in printing solutions, including flexographic printing. Other transactions include investments in companies like Palamy, Docuworld Group, Côté Textiles, and Evolis, showcasing their diverse investment approach while maintaining a presence in sectors related to printing and textiles.


3. Coveris Group

  • Website: coveris.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Vienna, Vienna, Austria
  • Founded year: 2013
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: coverisgroup

Coveris Group is a corporate investor based in Vienna, Austria, founded in 2013. The company specializes in flexible and sustainable packaging solutions, serving various industries including food, medical, and agricultural sectors. Coveris is committed to enhancing product safety and extending shelf life through innovative packaging technologies while minimizing waste. Notably, Coveris has made several strategic acquisitions to bolster its position in the packaging market. In 2019, they acquired Amberley Labels, a company that specializes in label printing, which is relevant to flexographic printing. Additionally, they acquired Paragon Print & Packaging Group in the same year, further expanding their capabilities in the packaging sector. These transactions highlight Coveris's focus on enhancing its product portfolio and market reach in areas that intersect with flexographic printing technologies.


4. Fedrigoni Group

  • Website: fedrigoni.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Milan, Lombardy, Italy
  • Founded year: 1888
  • Headcount: 5001-10000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 5
  • LinkedIn: fedrigoni

Fedrigoni Group, founded in 1888 and based in Milan, Italy, is a leading paper manufacturer specializing in the production of special papers and self-adhesive materials. The company serves a diverse clientele, including designers, printers, and converters, by providing innovative solutions for luxury packaging and creative communication. In recent years, Fedrigoni has made significant strides in expanding its portfolio through strategic acquisitions. Notably, in 2024, they acquired a majority stake in POLI-TAPE Group, enhancing their offerings in self-adhesive materials for visual communication. In 2021, they completed the acquisition of Acucote Inc., a US-based company specializing in self-adhesive materials, further solidifying their presence in the US market. Additionally, their acquisition of Ritrama in 2019 and a part of Mohawk Fine Papers in 2024 demonstrates their commitment to growth and innovation in the specialty paper market. These transactions highlight Fedrigoni's focus on enhancing their capabilities in areas relevant to flexographic printing, particularly in self-adhesive materials, making them a significant player in this industry.


5. Crowdcube

  • Website: crowdcube.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: crowdcube-limited

Crowdcube is a London-based crowdfunding platform founded in 2010 that enables businesses to raise capital through equity investments. It connects startups and SMEs with potential investors, facilitating the funding process. The platform promotes diversity and inclusion within its workforce while providing investment management services to its clients. Notably, Crowdcube has been involved in several transactions relevant to the flexographic printing context, including a significant investment in Flexi-Hex, which raised $1,020,841 on September 29, 2023. This investment highlights Crowdcube's role in supporting innovative solutions within the flexographic printing industry. Additionally, they have facilitated funding for Fishy Filaments, which, while not directly related to flexographic printing, showcases their active role in the broader printing and manufacturing sectors.


6. European Investment Bank (EIB)


The European Investment Bank (EIB), founded in 1958 and based in Luxembourg, is a public entity that provides financial services including loans, equity investments, guarantees, and advisory services to support sustainable projects across various sectors. The EIB's clientele includes both public and private organizations seeking funding for initiatives that promote growth and job creation. Notably, the EIB has participated in significant funding rounds for companies like Packhelp, a custom and sustainable packaging marketplace, which raised €40 million in Series B funding with EIB's participation. This investment aligns with the flexographic printing industry as it focuses on packaging solutions. Additionally, the EIB has invested in other innovative companies such as DyeMansion, a 3D printing startup, indicating its interest in advanced manufacturing technologies that may intersect with printing applications. These transactions highlight the EIB's role in supporting companies that could be relevant to the flexographic printing sector, particularly in sustainable and innovative packaging solutions.


7. Amcor

  • Website: amcor.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 1864
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • LinkedIn: amcor

Amcor is a leading packaging manufacturer founded in 1864, headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland. The company specializes in providing innovative and responsible packaging solutions across various industries, including food, beverage, healthcare, and personal care. Amcor is committed to sustainability, aiming to make all its products recyclable or reusable by 2025. In recent years, Amcor has made strategic investments and acquisitions to enhance its capabilities in flexible packaging. Notably, they acquired Phoenix Flexibles in August 2023, a flexible packaging plant in India, to expand their production capacity in a high-growth market. Additionally, Amcor has invested in ePac Flexible Packaging, raising $45 million in September 2022, which aligns with their focus on flexible packaging solutions. These transactions highlight Amcor's active role in the flexographic printing industry and their dedication to advancing sustainable packaging solutions.


8. Bgf

  • Website: bgf.co.uk
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2011
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 53
  • LinkedIn: bgfinvestments

BGF Investment Management Limited is a venture capital firm founded in 2011, based in London, England. The firm specializes in providing growth funding and value creation support to small and mid-sized businesses in the UK and Ireland. BGF focuses on addressing the funding gap in the market through minority investments and extensive support services. Notably, BGF has invested in companies like Pureprint, a digital and litho printer, which received a £5.3m investment to support its growth and technology advancements. Additionally, BGF has invested in Hobs Group, which operates in the printing and reprographics sector, receiving over £11m in total funding to expand its various printing services. These transactions highlight BGF's involvement in the printing industry, making them a relevant player in the flexographic printing space.


9. 3i Group plc

  • Website: 3i.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1945
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: 3i-group-plc

3i Group plc is a London-based private equity and infrastructure investment firm founded in 1945. The company specializes in providing capital and expertise to mid-market companies, focusing on sustainable growth. With a diverse portfolio and a strong international presence, 3i Group aims to create value for its stakeholders through strategic investments. Notably, 3i has made significant investments in the printing sector, including the acquisition of Euro-Druckservice in 2007 and DC DruckChemie GmbH in 2008 for €133 million, which is particularly relevant as it pertains to printing chemicals. These transactions highlight 3i's commitment to the printing industry, indicating their potential relevance to flexographic printing investments.


10. Cvc

  • Website: cvc.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Luxembourg
  • Founded year: 2005
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 16
  • LinkedIn: cvc-capital-partners

CVC Capital Partners is a prominent investment firm founded in 2005, based in Luxembourg, specializing in private equity, credit, secondaries, and infrastructure. With approximately €193 billion in assets under management for over 1000 clients, including pension funds and institutional investors, CVC focuses on delivering sustainable value and growth through strategic investments. Notably, CVC has been active in the printing and packaging industry, having acquired companies such as Hung Hing Printing Group, SIAT Group, Lecta, and AR Packaging. These transactions highlight CVC's engagement in the flexographic printing sector, as these companies are involved in various aspects of printing and packaging, further solidifying CVC's relevance in this industry.


11. Cimpress

  • Website: cimpress.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Dundalk, Louth, Ireland
  • Founded year: 1995
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • LinkedIn: cimpress

Cimpress is a corporate investor based in Dundalk, Louth, Ireland, founded in 1995. The company specializes in mass customization, providing personalized products such as print, signage, apparel, and packaging. With a workforce of over 10,000 employees, Cimpress serves small businesses and consumers, enabling them to create customized goods affordably and conveniently. The company operates a decentralized business model that fosters entrepreneurial spirit across its various brands. Notably, Cimpress has made several strategic acquisitions in the online printing space, including WIRmachenDRUCK, a German online printing company, for up to 180 million euros in 2015, and Pixartprinting for $127 million in 2014. These acquisitions, along with others like Printdeal and Druck.at, highlight Cimpress's commitment to expanding its capabilities in the printing industry, which often encompasses flexographic printing processes.


12. Ldc

  • Website: ldc.co.uk
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1981
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 15
  • LinkedIn: ldc

Lloyds Development Capital (LDC) is a private equity firm based in London, England, that specializes in providing growth capital and strategic support to mid-market businesses across various sectors. Founded in 1981, LDC is part of Lloyds Banking Group and focuses on fostering long-term partnerships to drive business success. Notably, LDC has been involved in several transactions relevant to the flexographic printing industry, including the acquisition of Showcard Print through a management buyout in 2012, which highlights their commitment to the printing sector. Additionally, LDC has been associated with Paragon Print and Packaging, a significant player in the packaging services market, further demonstrating their engagement in the printing and packaging landscape. These investments reflect LDC's strategy to support companies that align with their growth ambitions, particularly in the printing domain.


13. Equistone Partners Europe


Equistone Partners Europe is a private equity investment firm based in London, specializing in management buyouts and growth capital for mid-market companies across Europe. Founded in 1979, the firm has a strong track record of partnering with management teams to provide capital and strategic support aimed at long-term growth. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Ratioform Verpackungen GmbH in 2006, which operates in the packaging sector, and their involvement with Paragon Print and Packaging, a UK-based provider of packaging services, although this was through another investor. Their focus on the packaging industry positions them as a relevant player in the flexographic printing space, as flexographic printing is a key technology used in packaging production.


14. Mobeus


Mobeus Equity Partners is a private equity firm based in London, England, specializing in equity investments in UK-based small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Founded in 2012, Mobeus partners with management teams to provide funding for management buyouts and equity releases, facilitating growth and strategic development. The firm operates across various sectors, including business services and healthcare, and aims to deliver strong returns for stakeholders. Notably, Mobeus has been involved in several acquisitions relevant to the printing industry, including Tharstern, acquired on July 23, 2014, which provides print management software, and Creative Graphics International Ltd., acquired on June 2, 2014, which operates in the graphics and printing sector. These transactions highlight Mobeus's engagement with companies that have connections to the printing industry, suggesting a potential interest in flexographic printing.


15. Montagu

  • Website: montagu.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1968
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: montagu-private-equity-llp

Montagu Private Equity is a private equity firm based in London, England, founded in 1968. The firm specializes in investment management and growth strategies, focusing on mid-market companies across various sectors, including healthcare and financial services. Montagu has a strong commitment to responsible investing and operational improvements. Notably, Montagu has made significant strides in the flexographic printing industry by acquiring Kodak's Flexographic Packaging Division, which operates as a standalone company named Miraclon. This acquisition, announced in April 2019, was part of a larger strategy to support the growth of Kodak's flexo business, a leading provider of graphics solutions for packaging printing. Additionally, Montagu's earlier agreement to acquire the Flexographic Packaging Division of The Eastman Kodak Company in November 2018 further solidifies its involvement in the flexographic printing sector, showcasing its focus on enhancing capabilities and driving innovation in this area.


16. Huhtamaki

  • Website: huhtamaki.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Espoo, Uusimaa, Finland
  • Founded year: 1920
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • LinkedIn: huhtamaki

Huhtamaki is a corporate investor based in Espoo, Uusimaa, Finland, specializing in sustainable food packaging solutions. Founded in 1920, the company has grown to employ over 10,000 people and has made significant strides in the packaging industry. Huhtamaki's product range includes disposable tableware, flexible packaging, and molded fiber packaging, primarily serving quick service restaurants and retail operators. Notably, Huhtamaki has made strategic acquisitions to enhance its position in the flexible packaging market. In 2021, they acquired Elif, a global sustainable flexible packaging supplier, for €412 million, aiming to expand their technological capabilities and product range. Additionally, their acquisition of Ajanta Packaging for $15.5 million in 2018 further solidified their presence in the pressure-sensitive label market, which often employs flexographic printing techniques. These transactions highlight Huhtamaki's commitment to advancing its capabilities in flexible packaging, making them a relevant investor in the flexographic printing sector.


17. Zeus Packaging


Zeus Packaging, founded in 1998 and based in Dublin, Ireland, is a corporate investor and a leading provider of packaging solutions. The company specializes in a diverse range of innovative and sustainable packaging products and services, catering to various industries including Retail, Food, and Pharmacy. Zeus Packaging has been actively expanding its operations through strategic acquisitions, such as the acquisition of Swanline Group in June 2022, which enhances their capabilities in packaging solutions. In 2023, they acquired both James Hamilton Group and Polpack, the latter being a Polish distributor of packaging materials and machinery, which is particularly relevant to flexographic printing. These acquisitions are part of Zeus' strategy to increase their operational efficiency and revenue, indicating a strong commitment to enhancing their packaging offerings, potentially including flexographic printing technologies. Their recent acquisition of Cima Paper S.p.A further underscores their focus on expanding their packaging solutions portfolio.



Flexographic Printing Insights: Key Investors in Europe


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
Bunzl UK and IrelandLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)1001-500018545
Crédit Mutuel EquityParis, Île-De-France, France51-20019882
Coveris GroupVienna, Vienna, Austria1001-500020132
Fedrigoni GroupMilan, Lombardy, Italy5001-1000018885
CrowdcubeLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-20020103
European Investment Bank (EIB)Luxembourg1001-5000195899
AmcorZurich, Zurich, Switzerland10001+18640
BgfLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-200201153
3i Group plcLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)201-50019453
CvcLuxembourg1001-5000200516
CimpressDundalk, Louth, Ireland10001+19950
LdcLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-200198115
Equistone Partners EuropeLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-20019791
MobeusLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)11-5020120
MontaguLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-20019682
HuhtamakiEspoo, Uusimaa, Finland10001+19200
Zeus PackagingDublin, Dublin, Ireland1001-500019981


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